> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.gcore.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Connect to a Windows server

> Connect to a Windows server over RDP using Remote Desktop and credentials from the hosting panel or activation email.

Windows servers support Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). Retrieve the connection credentials from the [Hosting portal](https://hosting.gcore.com) or the activation email, then connect using Remote Desktop.

On Windows, use the built-in Remote Desktop Connection application. On macOS, download [Remote Desktop](https://apps.apple.com/app/microsoft-remote-desktop/id1295203466) from the App Store.

## Connection setup

**1. Navigate to the server list**

Log in to the [Hosting portal](https://hosting.gcore.com). In the left sidebar, select **Products/Services** → **Virtual private servers** or **Dedicated servers**.

**2. Select the server**

Check the box next to the server row. The toolbar activates.

**3. Retrieve credentials**

In the toolbar, click **Instructions**. A page opens with the connection credentials.

![Virtual private servers list with a server selected and the Instructions button in the toolbar](https://mintcdn.com/gcore/1bA_7wZnxXhG8zar/images/docs/hosting/dedicated-servers/manage/connect/connect-to-a-windows-server/connect-to-a-windows-server-image1.png?fit=max\&auto=format\&n=1bA_7wZnxXhG8zar\&q=85\&s=014bbb6186cd15111884cdb97ba3f1a3)

![Instructions page showing the server IP address, username, and password](https://mintcdn.com/gcore/1bA_7wZnxXhG8zar/images/docs/hosting/dedicated-servers/manage/connect/connect-to-a-windows-server/connect-to-a-windows-server-image2.png?fit=max\&auto=format\&n=1bA_7wZnxXhG8zar\&q=85\&s=e402ba8168276e36b4a39717801da346)

Note the **IP address**, **Username**, and **Password**. The same credentials appear in the activation email sent after provisioning.

**4. Open Remote Desktop Connection**

* **Windows**: press **Win + R**, type `mstsc`, and press **Enter**.
* **macOS**: open **Remote Desktop** from the App Store.

**5. Enter the server address**

In the **Computer** field (Windows) or **PC name** field (macOS), enter the IP address from the Instructions page.

**6. Authenticate and connect**

Enter the username and password, then click **Connect**. If a certificate warning appears, click **Yes** to proceed. The remote desktop session opens.